Discover a unique side of Goa in Amona

GT Digital

HIDDEN GEM OF A VILLAGE

Amona, a tiny village in Bicholim, was accessible via ferry services prior to December 2004, after which, the Amona bridge connecting it to Khandola made commuting easy. This location is famed for photography and videography ops.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | TEXT STORY: Danuska Da Gama Photo: Avaneesh Raut

LOST & FOUND

Of the many temples in this village, Rupo Bhagat is a deity known for finding lost belongings. A prayer alonG with jaggery of Rs 1, offered to him, means finding the missing items. This tradition continues till date.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

PROTECTOR OF THE VILLAGE

Another attraction of the village is a temple dedicated to Lord Koneshwar, considered the protector of the village. A sacred ritual followed here involves the presentation of small idols of horses in thanksgiving or to seek favours.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

THE GRAMDEVATA

The Betal temple is dedicated to Shree Betal, the gramdevata of the village. Villagers revere him with deep faith, and celebrate an annual zatra in his honour.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

SEEKING CURES

Another popular temple is the Mahalaxmi Ravalnath Temple, where diseases are believed to be cured through specific rituals, application of a specially prepared paste (on the affected body part), and offering of prasad.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

FESTIVALS & TRADITIONS

The village is famous for its lively festivals like Divja Utsav, Kalo and Gade Utsav among others which reflect its rich traditions and deep-rooted cultural practices.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

FOR THE LOVE OF FISHING

Considering that fishing is an important occupation for many a villager, while others enjoy fishing as a hobby, the locals get to relish fresh fish in their daily meals.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

HIGH & MIGHTY

Yet another interesting feature of the village is a unique statue of a seated Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj located at the jetty, in the Amona river. The villagers are followers of the warrior king.

Amona village | North Goa| Villages of Goa| | Photo: Avaneesh Raut

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